title: The evolution of systems of mental health care: the Arizona experience.
abstract: Reform in a system of mental health services is the result of a variety of forces that operate synergistically to bring about observed events. This evolutionary process is most likely to yield substantial results through multiple interventions over time rather than a single attempt at reform. A process of change in the mental health service system in Arizona has been evolving in response to the interaction of several key variables: a social movement dedicated to reform, a planned design for change, and the use of litigation. The author reviews each of these factors and assesses the overall process of change within the state.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychiatry, Kino Community Hospital, Tucson.
authors.forename: J M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Santiago
mesh_terms: D001130:Arizona; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003695:Delivery of Health Care; D006801:Humans; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000628:therapy; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration; D010344:Patient Advocacy / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D011057:Politics; D012922:Social Change